Apparatus and method for three-dimensional moisture control

ABSTRACT

A system and method for moisture control includes a computer, a probe controller connected to the computer, a set of probes connected to the probe controller, a sprinkler controller connected to the computer, and a set of sprinklers connected to the sprinkler controller. The set of probes are driven into the ground according to a predetermined set of positions. A set of high voltage currents is injected into the ground through the set of probes and measurements are taken. A three-dimensional resistivity model is generated from the measurements and is compared to a set of moisture requirements. A set of sprinkler commands is generated based on the three-dimensional resistivity model and the set of moisture requirements. If the three-dimensional resistivity model meets the set of moisture requirements, the set of sprinklers are activated in each of a set of sprinkler zones according the three-dimensional resistivity model where watering is needed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/728,330filed Jun. 2, 2015, now U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/004,184, granted on Jun.26, 2018. The above listed application is incorporated by reference inits entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to computer controlled sprinkler systems.In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus and methodfor three-dimensional moisture control

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many different entities consume fresh water resources including farming,municipalities for drinking water, industrial companies, and residences.As population and urbanization increases, the demand from these entitieson fresh water resources further increases, thereby making conservationand efficient use of fresh water critical. One common problem is thefrequent over use of water. For example, sprinkler systems runningduring or immediately after rain or during freezing temperatures,resulting in the waste of large quantities of water and dangerousconditions due to ice formation.

Recently, agricultural and residential uses of water have become thefocus of conservation and efficiency efforts. For example, localmunicipalities have implemented watering restrictions and in some placesentire watering bans. Various types of equipment have been developed tolimit watering, including automatic timers, rain sensors, and freezesensors, which control an entire sprinkler system. However, a typicalresidential yard includes grass, shrubs, and trees, each of whichrequires different watering amounts to remain healthy. These solutionsdo not account for these different levels of watering needs, leading tothe death of plants and soil erosion, which contaminates water suppliesonly making such resources more scarce.

The prior art has attempted to solve these problems with limitedsuccess. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,978,794 to Dukes discloses anautomatic control system and method for irrigation. The system includesa control device connected to an irrigation structure to control thewater flow. A set of time domain reflectometry sensors is connected tothe control device to measure moisture in the soil. The control devicedetermines whether to irrigate the soil based on the measurementsreceived from the set of time domain reflectometry sensors. If needed,the control device activates the irrigation structure to irrigate thesoil. However, the system in Dukes requires the time domainreflectometry sensors to be buried at different depths in order tomeasure moisture, thereby leading to inaccurate measurements. Further,the system in Dukes cannot generate a three dimensional resistivitymodel.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,063,271 to Lashgari discloses a moisture responsivesprinkler circuit. The sprinkler circuit includes a control circuit anda moisture responsive circuit. The control circuit is connected betweena sprinkler controller (e.g., timer) and a sprinkler valve, and ispowered by a valve signal sent from the sprinkler controller to thevalve. The moisture responsive circuit includes two pairs of electrodeswired in series and residing at different depths. When resistance acrossboth pairs of electrodes drops sufficiently, a relay in the controlcircuit opens and interrupts the valve signal to the valve to controlirrigation. However, the pair of electrodes must be placed at differentdepths that depend on the root depth of a plant in order to workproperly resulting in time consuming installation. Further, because theroot depth changes as the plant grows, the electrodes are easilymisaligned with the root depth leading to inaccurate measurements.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,671,969 to Dresse/haus discloses a moisture sensorburied in the soil that measures a moisture level of the surroundingsoil. Each watering zone within an irrigation system has a moisturesensor buried in the soil to individually monitor and determine how muchwater is needed in each zone. The moisture sensor includes controlfunctionality and acts as a regulator for the watering zone in which themoisture sensor is located. The moisture sensor regulates the amount ofwater the zone receives by preventing actuation of a solenoid valvebased upon a moisture level reading. The moisture sensor is coupledbetween an irrigation controller and the solenoid valve. Once suppliedpower from the irrigation controller, the moisture sensor supplies powerto the solenoid valve so long as the moisture level of the soil is notabove a threshold level. The power to the solenoid valve actuates thesolenoid valve and allows water to flow to sprinklers. However, thesensor in Dresselhaus does not account for different vegetation withineach zone and thereby can still lead to overwatering or underwateringwithin each zone.

Therefore, there is a need in the art for a system that measures soilmoisture at different depths in three dimensions. There is a furtherneed for a system and method for controlling a sprinkler system based onplant moisture requirements. There is still a further need for a systemand method for controlling a sprinkler system based on athree-dimensional moisture model.

SUMMARY

A system and method for moisture control is disclosed. The systemincludes a computer, a probe controller connected to the computer, a setof probes connected to the probe controller, a sprinkler controllerconnected to the computer, and a set of sprinklers connected to thesprinkler controller. The set of probes are driven into the groundaccording to a predetermined set of positions.

According to a control process saved in and executed by the computer,the probe controller injects a set of high voltage currents into theground through the set of probes and measures a voltage across the setof probes to create a set of probe data. The computer receives a set ofmoisture requirements and the set of probe data. A three-dimensionalresistivity model is generated from the set of probe data and iscompared to the set of moisture requirements. A set of sprinklercommands is generated based on the three-dimensional resistivity modeland the set of moisture requirements.

If the three-dimensional resistivity model meets the set of moisturerequirements, the set of sprinklers are activated in each of a set ofsprinkler zones according the three-dimensional resistivity model wherewatering is needed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the detailed description presented below, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic of water depths for different types of foliage.

FIG. 2 is a schematic of various soil types and sprinkler locations.

FIG. 3 is a schematic of a system for controlling sprinklers using athree-dimensional resistivity model of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic of a probe controller of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a probe of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 6B is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 6C is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 6D is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 6E is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 6F is a schematic of a series of permutations of the locations ofan ammeter and a current source and a volt meter of a preferredembodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a setup process of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a runtime process of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for polling a set of probes ofpreferred embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for creating a three-dimensionalmoisture map of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a resistivity map of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a resistivity map of a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a three-dimensional resistivity map of a preferredembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that aspects of thepresent disclosure may be illustrated and described in any of a numberof patentable classes or contexts including any new and useful processor machine or any new and useful improvement. Aspects of the presentdisclosure may be implemented entirely in hardware, entirely in software(including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or combiningsoftware and hardware implementation that may all generally be referredto herein as a “circuit,” “module,” “component,” or “system.” Further,aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computerprogram product embodied in one or more computer readable media havingcomputer readable program code embodied thereon.

Referring to FIG. 1, different foliage requires different amounts ofwater at different depths. For example, tree 101 has root system 102.Root system 102 has watering depth 103. Bush 104 has root system 105.Root system 105 has watering depth 106. Grass 106 has watering depth107. It can be seen that tree 101, bush 104 and grass 107 all requirewater at different depths below ground level 110.

Referring to FIG. 2, various soil types and odd sprinkler locations canat different locations require that different watering amounts occur atdifferent times in order to assure a uniform moisture level. Wateringzone 201 includes soil types 202, 203, 204, and 205, each of which is adifferent type of soil that absorbs water at a different rate. Differentsoil types can overlap and assume irregular patterns. Watering zone 201further includes a set of sprinklers 207. The placement of the set ofsprinklers 207 are denoted in the drawing by “0” s. As can be seen, theplacement of the set of sprinklers 207 are often irregular and do notmatch soil types 202, 203, 204, and 205 or placement of foliage.

In a preferred embodiment, a set of probes 206 is placed at a regularinterval to generate a three-dimensional resistivity map. The set ofprobes 206 are denoted in the drawing as “X” s. As will be furtherdescribed below, the three-dimensional resistivity map is used todetermine a watering schedule for watering zone 201 to assure a uniformmoisture level.

In a preferred embodiment, the set of probes 206 is placed in agrid-like pattern. In other embodiments, other patterns may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, each of the set of probes 206 is located in arange from approximately three (3) feet to approximately thirty (30)from each other. Other intervals may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, each probe has a set of location coordinates.For example, Cartesian coordinates are employed. Probe 208 has thecoordinates (0,0), probe 209 has the coordinates (0,1), and probe 210has the coordinates (1,0). The remaining probes have coordinates thatfollow in the described manner. Other coordinate systems may beemployed.

Referring to FIG. 3, system 300 includes network 301, graphic userinterface (“GUI”) controller 302 connected to network 301, and computer303 connected to network 301. Probe controller 304 is connected tocomputer 303 and to a set of probes 305. Sprinkler controller 306 isconnected to computer 303 and a set of sprinklers 307. Computer 303includes processor 308 and memory 309 connected to processor 308.Control process 310 is stored in memory 309 and executed by processor308.

GUI controller 302 includes processor 311 and memory 312 connected toprocessor 311. In one embodiment, control application 313 is stored inmemory 312 and executed by processor 311. In this embodiment, controlapplication 313 is a native application, such as a mobile application,and interfaces with and controls control process 310 through network301. In another embodiment, control application 313 is a web applicationstored on a third party server.

In a preferred embodiment, control process 310 utilizes probe controller304 and the set of probes 305 to produce a set of electrical resistivitytomography models, as will be further described below. Electricalresistivity tomography applies a known current to alternating pairs ofelectrodes i.e., the set of probes, and then measuring electricalpotential across other alternating pairs of electrodes. The measurementsallow calibration of electrical resistivity (or conductance) over aplurality of vertical planes in soil. Differences in the resistivitycorrelate directly to migration of ground moisture. The set ofelectrical resistivity tomography models is used to generate athree-dimensional resistivity model.

In one embodiment, network 301 is a wide area network such as theinternet. In another embodiment, network 301 is a local area network. Inanother embodiment, network 301 is a combination of a wide area networkconnected to a local area network.

In one embodiment, GUI controller 302 is a laptop computer. In anotherembodiment, GUI controller 302 is a smart phone. In another embodiment,GUI controller 302 is a tablet computer. Any computing device known inthe art may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, sprinkler controller 306 is any multi-zoneprogrammable sprinkler controller known in the art.

Referring to FIG. 4, probe controller 304 will be further described asprobe controller 400. Probe controller 400 is a power distribution unitcontaining power distribution electronics 401 for carrying out the logicfunctions for probe controller 400. Power supply 402 is connected toprobe controller 400 through switch 403. Switch 403 is connected toAC-DC converter 404, which is connected to high voltage power supply 405and to processor 406. Analog-to-digital converter (“ADC”) 407 isconnected to and read by processor 406. Digital-to-analog converter(“DAC”) 408 is connected to processor 406 and to high voltage powersupply 405. High voltage power supply 405 is connected to high voltagereference line 409. Volt meter 410 is connected to high voltage directcurrent line 411 and to processor 406 for measuring voltage. Processor406 measures the output voltage of high voltage direct current line 411with volt meter 409. Ammeter 412 is connected between high voltage powersupply 405 and high voltage return line 413. Ammeter 410 is furtherconnected to and read by processor 406 for measuring current.

High voltage reference line 409 is connected to a set of solid stateswitches 414. Set of solid state switches 414 is connected to processor406 and to probe connectors 417. High voltage return line 413 isconnected to set of solid state switches 415. Set of solid stateswitches 415 is connected to processor 406 and to probe connectors 417.High voltage direct current line 411 is connected to set of solid stateswitches 416. Set of solid state switches 416 is connected to processor406 and to set of probe connectors 417. A set of probes 418 is connectedto set of probe connectors 417.

Each of RAM 419 and flash memory 420 is connected to processor 406. Eachof network interface 421, USB port 422, RS232 port 423, display 424, andspeaker 425 is connected to processor 406.

In the preferred embodiment, high voltage power supply 405 is a1C24-P250 from UltraVolt, Inc. with a maximum output voltage of 800V anda current limit of 2 A. Other suitable high voltage power supplies knownin the art may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, processor 406 is model MSP430 from TexasInstruments. In this embodiment, ADC 407 is integrated into processor406. Other suitable processors and ADCs known in the art may beemployed.

In a preferred embodiment, each of solid state switches 414, 415, and416 is a solid state relay part no. GDH12028ZD3 from Greego Electric Co.Ltd. Other suitable solid state switches known in the art may beemployed.

In a preferred embodiment, set of probe connectors 417 is a PT/26482Series I insert-receptacle arrangement from Amphenol Industrial ProductsGroup. Other suitable connectors known in the art may be employed.

In use, probe controller 400 switchably controls a set of output powerlines, high voltage reference line 409, high voltage return line 413,and high voltage direct current line 411, for providing high voltagecurrent to the set of probes 418.

Processor 406 controls high voltage power supply 405 to send a voltagebetween zero and the maximum output of high voltage power supply 405 tohigh voltage direct current line 411. Processor 406 measures the outputvoltage of high voltage power supply 405, for proportional control ofhigh voltage direct current line 411. Ammeter 412 measures the currentbeing delivered to the set of probes 418. The voltage and currentmeasurements are sent to a connected computer via network interface 421,USB port 422, or RS232 port 423.

In a preferred embodiment, each probe of the set of probes 418 issimultaneously connected to probe connectors 417.

In a preferred embodiment, the set of probes 418 includes a referenceprobe and a subset of measurement probes. In this embodiment, probecontroller 400 selectively connects and disconnects to the referenceprobe and the subset of measurement probes, impresses a known current,and measures the voltage across the reference probe and the subset ofmeasurement probes, as will be further described below.

In a preferred embodiment, processor 406 controls sets of solid stateswitches 414, 415, and 416 to connect and disconnect high voltagesignals to and from the reference probe and the subset of measurementprobes according to a control process. Set of solid state switches 414opens and closes a path between high voltage reference line 409 and thereference probe. Set of solid state switches 415 opens and closes acurrent path between high voltage return line 413 and the subset ofmeasurement probes. Set of solid state switches 416 opens and closes acurrent path between high voltage direct current line 411 and the subsetof measurement probes.

Referring to FIG. 5, probe 500 includes shaft 501 and tip 502 integrallyformed on shaft 501. Cap 503 includes recess 504 to frictionally receiveshaft 501. Cap 503 is sealed onto the shaft with a suitable adhesive.Cap 503 further includes contact 505. Contact 505 is connected to cable506. Cable 506 is connected to connector 507.

In a preferred embodiment, shaft 501 and tip 502 are made of steel.Other suitable conductive materials may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, cap 503 is made of polyvinylchloride. Otherinsulating materials, such as rubber, rubber-like polymers and plastics,may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, contact 505 is a copper disk. In otherembodiments, other suitable conductive materials, such as platinum, areemployed.

In a preferred embodiment, cable 506 is an insulated copper cable. Othersuitable insulated cables may be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, connector 507 is a PT/26482 Series Iinsert-receptacle arrangement from Amphenol Industrial Products Group.Other suitable connectors known in the art may be employed.

Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, and 6F, a schematic of a methodfor obtaining a resistivity model will be further described. In order tocreate a complete resistivity model, a voltage must be measured at everypossible permutation of probes in an array. Moreover, in order to obtaina complete resistivity model, a current source must also be connected toevery possible permutation of probes.

Referring to FIG. 6A, volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe 601and to probe 604 of array 600 at connection 610. Ammeter 612 and currentsource 611 are connected to probes 602 and 603. A measured current isinjected into the ground through probes 602 and 603. Voltage is measuredacross reference probe 601 and probe 604. While volt meter 609 remainsconnected to reference probe 601, volt meter 609 is further sequentiallyconnected to probes 605, 606, 607, and 608 at connections 613, 614, 615,and 616, respectively. A measured current is injected and a voltagemeasurement is taken at each connection.

Referring to FIG. 6B, ammeter 612 and current source 611 are connectedto probes 603 and 604. Volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe601 and probe 602 at connection 617. A measured current is injected intothe ground through probes 603 and 604. Voltage across reference probe601 and probe 602 is measured. Volt meter 609 is then sequentiallyconnected to reference probe 601 and probes 605, 606, 607, and 608 atconnections 618, 619, 620, and 621, respectively. A measured current isinjected and a voltage measurement is taken at each connection of voltmeter 609.

Referring to FIG. 6C, ammeter 612 and current source 611 are connectedto probes 604 and 605. Volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe601 and probe 602 at connection 622. A measured current is injected intothe ground through probes 604 and 605. Voltage across reference probe601 and probe 602 is measured. Volt meter 609 is then sequentiallyconnected to reference probe 601 and probes 603, 606, 607, and 608 atconnections 623, 624, 625, and 626, respectively. A measured current isinjected and a voltage measurement is taken at each connection of voltmeter 609.

Referring to FIG. 6D, ammeter 612 and current source 611 are connectedto probes 605 and 606. Volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe601 and probe 602 at connection 627. A measured current is injected intothe ground through probes 605 and 606. Voltage across reference probe601 and probe 602 is measured. Volt meter 609 is then sequentiallyconnected to reference probe 601 and probes 603, 604, 607, and 608 atconnections 628, 629, 630, and 631, respectively. A measured current isinjected and a voltage measurement is taken at each connection of voltmeter 609.

Referring to FIG. 6E, ammeter 612 and current source 611 are connectedto probes 606 and 607. Volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe601 and probe 602 at connection 632. A measured current is injected intothe ground through probes 601 and 602. Voltage across reference probe601 and probe 602 is measured. Volt meter 609 is then sequentiallyconnected to reference probe 601 and probes 603, 604, 605, and 608 atpositions 633, 634, 635, and 636, respectively. A measured current isinjected and a voltage measurement is taken at each connection of voltmeter 609.

Referring to FIG. 6F, ammeter 612 and current source 611 are connectedto probes 607 and 608. Volt meter 609 is connected to reference probe601 and probe 602 at connection 637. A measured current is injected intothe ground through probes 601 and 602. Voltage across reference probe601 and probe 602 is measured. Volt meter 609 is then sequentiallyconnected to reference probe 601 and probes 603, 604, 605, and 606 atconnections 638, 639, 640, and 641, respectively. A measured current isinjected and a voltage measurement is taken at each connection of voltmeter 609.

In a preferred embodiment, the method described in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D,6E, and 6F is repeated for each of a set of arrays.

Other permutations of connections for injecting current and takingmeasurements between an array of electrodes are envisioned by thepreferred embodiment. Those skilled in the art will recognize that thecurrent can be injected at many different locations in a given array,not only those shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, and 6F. All possiblepermutations are also envisioned as embodiments of this preferredembodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, setup method 700 will be further described. At step701, a configuration and a position for each of the set of probes isdetermined. For example, the set of probes are configured in a grid-likeconfiguration. Once the configuration is determined a position for eachprobe in the configuration is determined. For example, in the gridconfiguration the positions are determined based on Cartesiancoordinates.

At step 702, each of the set of probes is installed by driving eachprobe into the ground at its determined position and connecting eachprobe to the probe controller. At step 703, the position of each probeis recorded and saved into memory using a GUI controller.

Referring to FIG. 8, control process 800 will be described. At step 801,the GUI controller is used to enter and create a set of moisturerequirements for each three-dimensional zone. In a preferred embodiment,the three-dimensional zone corresponds to a grid pattern which matchesthe probe arrangement as shown in FIG. 2. In one embodiment, the set ofmoisture requirements are determined by the type of foliage planted inthe zone. In one embodiment, a set of moisture requirements isdownloaded and saved into memory in the form of a look-up table.

In one embodiment, a set of water restrictions is downloaded and savedinto memory. The set of water restrictions determine when a propertyowner can water their lawn. For example, the set water restrictionslimit watering to Tuesdays and Thursdays and not between the hours of 10am to 6 pm.

In one embodiment, a set of weather conditions is downloaded and savedinto memory.

At step 802, the probe controller polls the probes for measurements. Atstep 803, a 3-D moisture model is generated from the probe measurementdata. At step 804, a predetermined zone or set of zones is selected. Atstep 805, the zone moisture requirements for the predetermined zone orset of zones are compared to the moisture present as indicated from themoisture model. If the zone moisture requirements are not met, then atstep 806, the sprinkler controller is activated by a set of sprinklercommands generated by the computer for that particular zone, or for theset of zones.

In one embodiment, the set of sprinkler commands includes a wateringschedule based on the set of watering restrictions.

In one embodiment, the set of sprinkler commands includes a waterschedule based on the set of weather conditions. For example, thesprinkler commands will not activate the sprinklers if it is raining orif rain is expected within a predetermined time. In another example, thesprinkler commands will not activate if the temperature is below 32°Fahrenheit or the temperature will be below 32° Fahrenheit within apredetermined period of time.

In one embodiment, the set of sprinkler commands includes a wateringschedule based on the set of watering restrictions and the set ofweather conditions.

At step 807, the sprinkler controller delays for a predetermined runtime to allow the sprinklers to run. After the predetermined run time,the method returns to step 805. If at step 805, the zone moisturerequirements are met, then the method moves to step 808. At step 808,the method determines if the last zone has been checked. If not, themethod moves to step 804, where it advances to the next zone. If thelast zone has been checked, then method 800 proceeds to step 809. Atstep 809, whether an end command has been received is determined. If anend command has not been received, then method 800 returns to step 802and acquires additional probe data. If an end command has been received,then method 800 ends at step 810.

Referring to FIG. 9, step 802 will be further described as method 900for polling the set of probes. Method 900 begins at step 901. At step902, a set of probe positions is retrieved from memory. At step 903, aset of measurement configurations for the set of probes is retrieved. Ina preferred embodiment, the set of measurement configurations is a setof instructions for injecting current to a subset of probes to injectcurrent and to measure voltages, as previously described.

At step 904, a measurement configuration of the set of measurements isconfiguration is set. In this step, a probe controller configures a setof switches to connect to a reference probe and a set of measurementprobes. At step 905, a current is injected into the ground through theset of probes. At step 906, a set of measurements is made from the setof probes. In this step, a set of voltages is measured. At step 907, theset of measurements is saved. At step 908, a determination of whetherall configurations have been completed is made. If all configurationshave not been completed, then method 900 proceeds to step 909. At step909, method 900 advances to the next configuration in the set ofconfigurations. If all configurations have been completed, then method900 ends at step 910.

Referring to FIG. 10, step 803 will be further described as method 1000for generating a three-dimensional resistivity model. At step 1001, aset of measurement data is retrieved from memory. The set of measurementdata includes a set of measured voltages and measured currents for eachof a set of probe arrays, as previously described. At step 1002, a setof electrical resistivity calculations is calculated from the measuredvoltages and currents according to the following equation:

$\begin{matrix}{\rho_{nm} = {L\frac{V_{nm}}{I}}} & {{Eq}.\mspace{14mu} 1}\end{matrix}$

where ρ_(nm) is the current density between the probes at positions nand m, K is a probe geometric constant, V_(nm) is the electric potentialdifference between two probes, a probe at position n and a probe atposition m, and I is the injected current which corresponds to themeasured HV current. In this step, a set of virtual resistivitylocations is calculated based on the known locations of the currentprobes and the voltage probes.

At step 1003, the set of resistivity calculations and the set of virtualresistivity locations are sorted into a number of discrete sets, each ofwhich includes a set of spatial coordinates and a set of resistivityvalues at each set of spatial coordinates.

In a preferred embodiment, SWIFTCNV software from SAGA Geophysics, Inc.is used to perform step 1003. Other suitable software programs known inthe art may be employed.

At step 1004, a least squares data inversion analysis on each of thediscrete sets is performed to create a first electrical resistivitymodel that corresponds to each of the set of probe arrays, therebycreating a set of first electrical resistivity models. Each firstelectrical resistivity model minimizes the error of the measurementdata. Hence, each first electrical resistivity model may be considered a“rough” resistivity model.

In a preferred embodiment, RES2DINV software from SAGA Geophysics, Inc.is employed. Any suitable software that performs least squares inversionand produces a two-dimensional graphical output may be employed.

At step 1005, a spatial data analysis is performed on each firstelectrical resistivity model using geostatistical methods known in theart, such as kriging. Other geostatistical methods known in the art maybe employed. At step 1006, a set of second electrical resistivity modelsis generated that minimizes the error of the spatial variability of theset of first electrical resistivity models. In a preferred embodiment,SURFER software available from Golden Software, Inc. is employed. Anygeostatistical analysis program known in the art may be used. Hence,each second electrical resistivity model may be considered a “refined”resistivity model.

At step 1007, each second electrical resistivity model is combined togenerate the three-dimensional resistivity model. In a preferredembodiment, each second electrical resistivity model corresponds to anarray of probes. In a preferred embodiment, regression analysis isemployed to “connect” the two-dimensional models to generate thethree-dimensional model. The three-dimensional model corresponds to agrid.

In a preferred embodiment, SURFER software available from GoldenSoftware, Inc. is employed. Any geostatistical analysis program known inthe art may be used.

Referring to FIG. 11, model 1100 is an example of a two-dimensionalgraphical output of the least squares data inversion analysis of step1004. Model 1100 include sill-defined voids 1101, 1102, and 1103 andsubsurface features such as sandbar 1104.

Referring to FIG. 12, model 1200 is an example of a two-dimensionalgraphical representation of location and resistivity. Model 1200 is anexample of a two-dimensional graphical output of the kriging analysis.As can be seen model 1200 shows with much greater clarity than model1100, voids 1201, 1202, 1203, and 1204, ground water 1205, saturatedsoil 1206, and sandbar deposit 1207.

Referring to FIG. 13, three-dimensional model 1300 includestwo-dimensional models 1301, 1302, 1303, 1304, 1305, 1306, and 1307. Ina preferred embodiment, each of two-dimensional models 1301, 1302, 1303,1304, 1305, 1306, and 1307 corresponds to an array of probes. In apreferred embodiment, regression analysis is employed to “connect” thetwo-dimensional models to generate the three-dimensional model. Thethree-dimensional model corresponds to a grid.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the describedembodiments disclose significantly more than an abstract idea includingtechnical advancements in the field of data processing and atransformation of data which is directly related to real world objectsand situations in that the disclosed embodiments enable a computer tooperate more efficiently, enable a sprinkler system to operate moreefficiently, and improve the efficient use of water. Specifically, thedisclosed embodiments at least determine soil moisture levels in a moredetailed way than systems and methods of the prior art and determinespecific watering needs based on the detailed moisture levels, therebyleading to more efficient use of water and more efficient operation of asprinkler system.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that modificationscan be made to the embodiments disclosed and remain within the inventiveconcept. Therefore, this invention is not limited to the specificembodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover changes within the scopeand spirit of the claims.

1. A method for controlling moisture comprising the steps of: receivinga set of zones; downloading and saving into a computer memory athree-dimensional set of moisture requirements indicating a coordinatedset of horizontal zones and vertical depths in the form of a look-uptable; receiving a set of probe data; generating a three-dimensionalresistivity model from the set of probe data; comparing thethree-dimensional resistivity model to the coordinated set of horizontalzones and depths; and, generating a set of sprinkler commands based onthe comparison.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of receivinga set of probe data further comprises the steps of: retrieving a set ofprobe configurations; selecting a probe configuration from the set ofprobe configurations; injecting a current based on the probeconfiguration; and, measuring a voltage from the probe configuration. 3.The method of claim 1, wherein the step of generating athree-dimensional resistivity model further comprises the steps of:calculating a set of resistivity data from the set of probe data;sorting the set of resistivity data to create a set of sortedresistivity data; generating a rough set of resistivity models from theset of sorted resistivity data; generating a refined set of resistivitymodels from the rough set of resistivity models; and, combining eachresistivity model of the refined set of resistivity models to generatethe three-dimensional resistivity model.
 4. The method of claim 3,further comprising the step of performing a spatial data analysis oneach of the set of rough resistivity models.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein the step of calculating the set of resistivity data from the setof probe data further comprises the step of calculating a set of virtualresistivity locations; and, wherein the step of sorting the set ofresistivity data to create a set of sorted resistivity data furthercomprises the step of generating a set of resistivity values at each ofthe set of virtual resistivity locations.
 6. The method of claim 1,further comprising the step of activating a set of sprinklers based onthe set of sprinkler commands.
 7. A method for moisture controlcomprising the steps of: providing a computer; providing a set ofsprinkler controllers connected to the computer and to at least onesprinkler; providing a probe controller connected to the computer;providing a set of probes connected to the probe controller; programmingthe probe controller to collect a set of probe data; programming thecomputer to perform the following steps: receive a set of zones; receivea three-dimensional set of moisture requirements including a set ofhorizontal zones associated with a set of depths related to types offoliage stored in a look-up table; receive the set of probe data;generate a three-dimensional resistivity model from the set of probedata; compare the three-dimensional resistivity model to thethree-dimensional set of moisture requirements; generate a set ofsprinkler commands based on the comparison; and, send the set ofsprinkler commands to the at least one sprinkler.
 8. The method of claim7, wherein the step of providing a set of probes further comprises:providing a reference probe connected to the probe controller; providinga set of measurement probes connected to the probe controller; and,programming the probe controller to: implement a probe configuration forthe reference probe and the set of measurement probes; inject a currentbased on the probe configuration; and, measure a voltage based on theprobe configuration.
 9. The method of claim 7, including the furtherstep of programming the computer to: calculate a set of resistivity datafrom the set of probe data; sort the set of resistivity data to create aset of sorted resistivity data; generate a first set of resistivitymodels from the set of sorted resistivity data; generate a second set ofresistivity models from the first set of resistivity models; and,combine the second set of resistivity models to generate thethree-dimensional resistivity model.
 10. The method of claim 7, furthercomprising: providing a set of sprinklers, including the at least onesprinkler, connected to the set of sprinkler controllers; providing aset of surface zones, in the set of zones, each surface zone associatedwith a subset of sprinklers of the set of sprinklers; and, sending theset of sprinkler commands to each sprinkler of the subset of sprinklers.11. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of sending the set ofsprinkler commands further comprises sending a watering schedule basedon one of a set of watering restrictions and a set of weatherconditions.
 12. The method of claim 7, further comprising the step of:providing a predetermined amount of water at a predetermined depth basedon the three-dimensional set of moisture requirements and based on thetypes of foliage in the set of zones; and, wherein the step of sendingthe set of sprinkler commands includes sending the set of sprinklercommands according to a watering schedule that is based on one of a setof watering restrictions and a set of weather restrictions.
 13. A methodfor controlling moisture comprising: providing a computer; providing aset of sprinkler controllers connected to the computer, each sprinklercontroller controlling at least one sprinkler; providing a probecontroller connected to the computer; providing a set of probesconnected to the probe controller, each probe associated with a probelocation, and comprising at least one reference probe; programming theprobe controller to measure a set of probe data by measuring voltagesbetween the reference probe and each of a plurality of other probes andby measuring corresponding currents between pairs of the plurality ofother probes; programming the computer to: receive a three-dimensionalset of moisture requirements including a set of zones associated with aset of depths below a surface related to types of foliage stored in alook-up table, each type of foliage associated with a watering depth;receive the set of probe data; calculate a set of resistivity data fromthe set of probe data, the probe locations, and a probe geometricconstant; sort the set of resistivity data to create a set of sortedresistivity data; generate a first set of resistivity models from theset of sorted resistivity data; generate a second set of resistivitymodels from the first set of resistivity models; combine eachresistivity model of the second set of resistivity models to generate athree-dimensional resistivity model; compare the three-dimensionalresistivity model to the three-dimensional set of moisture requirements;generate a set of sprinkler commands based on the comparison; and, sendthe set of sprinkler commands to the set of sprinkler controllersactivating the corresponding at least one sprinkler.
 14. The method ofclaim 13, further comprising: providing a set of measurement probesconnected to the probe controller; and, programming the probe controllerto: implement a probe configuration for the reference probe and the setof measurement probes; inject a current based on the probeconfiguration; and, measure a voltage based on probe configuration. 15.The method of claim 13, further comprising: providing a set ofsprinklers, including the at least one sprinkler, connected to the setof sprinkler controllers; providing a set of surface zones, in the setof zones, each surface zone associated with a subset of sprinklers ofthe set of sprinklers; and, sending the set of sprinkler commands toeach sprinkler of the subset of sprinklers.
 16. The method of claim 13,including the step of programming the computer to: send the set ofsprinkler commands according to a watering schedule that is based on oneof a set of watering restrictions and a set of weather conditions.
 17. Amethod for moisture control comprising the steps of: providing acomputer; connecting a sprinkler controller to the computer and to a setof sprinklers; connecting a probe controller to the computer; connectinga set of probes to the probe controller; programming the probecontroller to measure a set of probe data; programming the computer to:receive a set of zones; receive a three-dimensional set of moisturerequirements including a set of horizontal zones associated with a setof depths related to types of foliage stored in a look-up table; receivethe set of probe data; generate a three-dimensional resistivity modelfrom the set of probe data; compare the three-dimensional resistivitymodel to the three-dimensional set of moisture requirements; generate aset of sprinkler commands based on the comparison; and, send the set ofsprinkler commands to the set of sprinklers.
 18. The method of claim 17,wherein the step of sending the set of sprinkler commands to the set ofsprinklers further comprises the step of: receiving a set of wateringrestrictions and a set of weather conditions.
 19. The method of claim18, further comprising the step of: activating the sprinkler controllerbased on one of the set of watering restrictions and the set of weatherconditions.
 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of:activating the sprinkler controller based on one of the set of weatherconditions and the set of watering restrictions.